Solar panels were first installed on the White House in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter, but were taken down by President Ronald Reagan just seven years later. President Obama must put solar panels back on the roof to show that America is ready for a clean energy economy and that his administration is willing to lead the nation in this effort. Although President Obama promised on October 5, 2010 to have solar panels and a solar water heater on the roof by summer 2011, there has been no action whatsoever. He must follow through on his promise immediately in order to send a message to the world that the United States is ready to lead the clean energy revolution.

Letter to

President Obama

I am writing to you today to encourage you to place solar panels back on the White House and to let you know that Americans care about our energy future. The White House is a major symbol of our country, as stated on WhiteHouse.gov: “Throughout the world, the White House is recognized as the symbol of the President, of the President's administration, and of the United States.” In order to send the message that America needs and supports a green energy revolution, the White House must take the lead in showing its support.

As I’m sure you know, President Carter installed solar panels on the White House in 1979, but they were removed during President Reagan's term. On October 5, 2011, you announced to the world that you would re-install them on the White House roof. However, no visible action has taken place since then. I know that you have the busiest job in the world, and you are balancing hundreds of issues. Still, promises are promises, and it is your duty to keep them.

You stated in your State of the Union 2012 Address, “I will not cede the wind or solar or battery industry to China or Germany because we refuse to make the same commitment here.” Make that commitment, and place solar panels back on the White House.